England’s Paul Drinkhall failed in his bid to become the second European gold medallist at a World Junior Championships. The 18 year old Englishman lost to Chen Chien-An of Chinese Taipei in five games in the final.

Drinkhall was not inferior, Chen just seemed to be a bit fresher and luckier in the close moments. Chen lost three matches during the team event but finally was the best player in singles.

Improvement during the Week“Maybe I just relaxed myself,” the 17 year old Asian said. “Before the event I thought a top four place could be possible. This title now will help me for promotion.” Asked about his coach he said: “I have a very good coach, he has excellent strategies.”

Drinkhall about the Final and his Future“I definitely felt the stronger player,” the Englishman said. “My legs were a little bit tired and I was too far away from the table.” After this second place, Drinkhall knows exactly where he is in the world and what he needs to improve to beat the strongest players from Asia. “I came here thinking I was one of the best Junior players in the world; now I saw it’s true. The Asian players are very strong in service and receiving. That’s what I have to work on.”